COUNCIL has formally opposed plans for another major data centre in South Morang, raising concerns about its proximity to residential homes, the environmental impacts and the potential loss of future housing opportunities within the area.
At the council meeting on November 5, councillors unanimously endorsed a council officer submission to object to the proposed data centre development at 165 Williamson’s Road, South Morang.
The proposal, lodged through the State Government’s Development Facilitation Program (DFP), would see a 200 to 250 megawatt facility operating 24/7, seven days a week, with the Minister for Planning retaining responsibility for the final planning decision.
Council’s planning officers acknowledged multiple grounds for objection, including the proposed removal of more than three hectares of native vegetation and 219 protected trees, including 208 river red gums.
The proposed 33-metre-high building would also sit approximately 60 metres from neighbouring residential properties, raising concerns about noise, lighting, air quality and the impact on future housing opportunities.
Cr David Lenberg said the proposal was another example of local communities being left out of significant planning decisions.
“We recognise data centres are essential infrastructure. Nobody here is anti-technology, but essential infrastructure in the wrong location does not safeguard our community. It sacrifices it,” he said.
Cr Chaman Tiwari also voiced concerns about the proximity of the facility to homes and the removal of trees, saying the community had made its opposition clear through 133 submissions and a petition.
“This is not opposition to development or investment. This is just a call to protect residents’ wellbeing, our natural environment and Whittlesea’s liveability for generations to come,” she said
Cr Michael Labrador said he recognised the importance of data centres to the digital economy but questioned whether the proposed location was appropriate.
“I’m not against the technology and I’m not against the specific use and need, but it has to be in the right place and not a detriment to our community,” he said.
The meeting also considered a separate proposal for the Mernda Town Centre, with council opposing a development plan it believed would undermine the community’s long-term vision for the precinct.
Councillors raised concerns that the proposal prioritised large-format retail and car parking over housing, public spaces and a connected, pedestrian-friendly town centre.
The development also seeks to transfer planning decision-making powers from council to the Minister for Planning, bypassing the existing council-endorsed development plan.
Cr Daniela Zinni said a town centre should be “the heart of a community, a place with housing, public spaces and services and opportunities for people to live, work and connect”.
Both motions were carried, with council reiterating its concerns about the State Government’s use of the DFP and the need for greater community involvement in planning decisions.
While the council has formally objected to the South Morang data centre, the final decision remains with the Minister for Planning.